Holiday Cake Salad
A festive and creamy layered salad combining cherries, pineapple, and walnuts with a smooth Jell-O base, perfect for holiday gatherings and dessert tables.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain the sweet cherries and crushed pineapple, reserving the syrup.
- Add water to the syrup to make 2 cups.
- Heat the syrup and water mixture in a saucepan.
- Add the strawberry and cherry Jell-O powders; stir until dissolved.
- Blend in the cream cheese in a blender on low speed until smooth.
- Add the drained fruits and chopped walnuts to the mixture.
- Add the dry white cake mix and stir all ingredients together until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into a pan and chill until set.
- Serve chilled. The dessert freezes well.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, ensure the cream cheese is softened at room temperature before blending. You can substitute the walnuts with pecans or omit them for a nut-free version. If you prefer a different flavor, try using raspberry Jell-O instead of cherry. This dessert is reminiscent of No-Bake Pineapple Dessert, making it a crowd-pleaser.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Holiday Cake Salad chilled as a festive dessert at gatherings or potlucks. It pairs beautifully with American recipes like grilled meats or a light salad. Consider adding a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of coconut on top for an extra touch of sweetness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Holiday Cake Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If freezing, portion it into individual servings for easy access. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving, as this will help maintain the texture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Holiday Cake Salad contains roughly 724 calories, with 12g protein, 75g carbohydrates, and 45g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (24% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 495mg per serving (22% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh fruit instead of canned?
While canned fruit is convenient, you can use fresh fruit for a fresher taste. Just ensure the fruit is well-drained to avoid excess moisture in the mix. Fresh cherries and pineapple chunks would work well, though they may alter the texture slightly.
How long does it take for the dessert to set?
The Holiday Cake Salad typically takes about 4 to 6 hours to chill and set properly in the refrigerator. For best results, prepare it the night before serving to ensure it is fully set and flavors have melded together.
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes, this dessert is perfect for making ahead. You can prepare it up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to develop even more, making it a great option for holiday gatherings or special occasions.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).